According to the latest figures from research firm IDC, the global PC market grew 22.4% in the second quarter of 2010.

IDC noted that Europe, Middle East and Africa (EMEA) remained strong but growth in the US and APAC was “slightly behind projections”.

Globally, desktop PC shipments were said to have exceeded expectations, confirming signs that businesses are upgrading.

"The PC market remains robust, and in a recovery phase, despite challenges to a broader economic recovery, such as slow job growth and a more conservative outlook in Europe and Asia/Pacific," said IDC Research Analyst, Jay Chou.

"The factors which led to the recent PC rebound – an aging commercial installed base, a proliferation of low-cost media-centric PCs, and low PC penetration through much of the world – remain key drivers going forward."

Bob O'Donnell, IDC Vice President for Clients and Displays, added that the surge in consumer activity seen in the past two quarters has started to slow, while commercial replacements continue to grow.

The regional outlook for Asia Pacific (excluding Japan) showed a gain of nearly 35% compared to a year ago.

“Desktop PC volume moved at a brisk pace to help offset lower than expected activity in Portable PCs. Nonetheless, Portable PCs remained a key driver with at least double-digit year-on-year growth in nearly all countries,” said the report.